Embarking on the Maah Daah Hey Trail is a true wilderness undertaking that requires careful planning and a spirit of adventure. This five-day itinerary focuses on the southern and central sections of the trail, which offer some of the most iconic landscapes and accessible trailheads. Starting from the Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK), you will be just a short drive from the heart of the Badlands. This plan balances time on the trail with the unique cultural experiences found in the gateway town of Medora, ensuring a well-rounded North Dakota experience.
Day 1: Arrival and Medora Immersion
After landing at Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK), pick up your rental vehicleâpreferably one with high clearanceâand head west for about 40 miles to the historic town of Medora. This town serves as the southern gateway to the trail and the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Spend your first afternoon stretching your legs on the trails immediately surrounding the town, or take a drive through the parkâs scenic loop to get your first look at the bison herds.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional 'pitchfork steak fondue' dinner overlooking the canyon. This is a great time to check in with local outfitters if you need to arrange a shuttle for your vehicle or pick up any last-minute supplies like extra water bladders or topographic maps. Staying in Medora for your first night allows you to adjust to the dry climate and high-plains air before you begin the more strenuous portions of your trip. Get a good night's rest, as the trail ahead is physically demanding.
Day 2: Sully Creek to Bully Pulpit
Begin your journey at the Sully Creek Trailhead, located just south of Medora. This segment of the Maah Daah Hey is famous for its river crossings and dramatic ascents into the heart of the Badlands. As you move north, you will traverse high ridges that offer 360-degree views of the rugged terrain. Keep an eye out for the wild horses that frequent this area; they are often seen silhouetted against the sky on the distant buttes. The trail here is a mix of grassy plateaus and steep, narrow descents into wooded draws.
This section can be done as a long day hike or a morning bike ride. By afternoon, you can explore the Buffalo Gap Trail, which provides a loop option that avoids the wilderness area restrictions if you are on a mountain bike. Total mileage for the day can range from 10 to 15 miles depending on your pace. Plan to camp at one of the USFS sites or return to Medora. Remember that water is scarce, so ensure your packs are fully topped off before leaving the trailhead.
Day 3: The Rugged Heart of Wannagan
On your third day, move further north to the Wannagan Trailhead. This area showcases the sheer diversity of the Badlands, from lush creek bottoms to stark, eroded clay peaks. The 'Grand Canyon' feel is most prominent here, with deep ravines and layered rock walls that change color as the sun moves across the sky. The trail winds through dense stands of juniper and cedar, providing brief moments of shade and a different scent than the open prairie.
This is a prime area for spotting mule deer and pronghorn. The elevation changes in this section are frequent and can be tiring, so take plenty of breaks to soak in the silence. Because this area is more remote, you will likely encounter fewer people, allowing for a deep sense of solitude. If you are backpacking, look for a flat spot on a ridge to set up camp for the night. The lack of light pollution here makes the Milky Way appear incredibly bright, providing a spectacular end to a day of hard trekking.
Where to sleep
Harvest Hosts stays on the way to Maah Daah Hey Trail
Partner link · Harvest Hosts
Day 4: Magpie Creek and the Ice Caves
Continue north toward the Magpie Trailhead. This section is known for its fascinating geological features, including the nearby 'ice caves' where snow and ice can sometimes be found deep in rock crevices well into the summer. The trail passes through expansive grasslands where you can truly appreciate the 'Big Sky' of North Dakota. The Magpie area is also home to significant cattle ranching history, and you may see modern-day cowboys working their herds in the surrounding national grasslands.
For bikers, this section offers some fast, flowing segments interspersed with technical rocky climbs. For hikers, the wide-open views provide a great opportunity for photography. Spend your evening at the Magpie Campground, which offers a primitive but well-maintained spot to rest. The sunsets here are legendary, often painting the sky in vibrant shades of pink and purple. Make sure to secure your food, as curious coyotes and other wildlife are active during the night. Reflect on the journey as you prepare for your final day on the trail.
Day 5: North Unit Vistas and Departure
On your final day, make the drive to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. While the Maah Daah Hey continues further, the North Unit offers some of the most spectacular 'caprock' formations and the famous Cannonball Concretionsâlarge, spherical boulders formed by mineral cementation. Take a final hike to the Sperati Point, which overlooks the Oxbow Bend of the Little Missouri River. It is a fitting conclusion to your journey, offering a view of the vast landscape you have just traversed.
After your morning exploration, begin the drive back toward Dickinson. If time allows, stop in Watford City for a celebratory meal before heading to the airport. The drive from the North Unit back to DIK takes about an hour and a half. Ensure you have plenty of time to return your rental car and check in for your flight. As you fly out, look down at the jagged brown and red landscape, knowing you have experienced one of the most rugged and rewarding trails in the American West.
More ways to book Maah Daah Hey Trail
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare